Easy Riders April 28th

Phil M. led a very interesting ride today from Teddington. About 15 of us left the day centre, went across the high street;turned left and soon came to Crane Park. A very nice park in dry weather. (Donkey Wood not adviseable in wet weather)! From there we went over Hounslow Heath. We passed the Cavalry Barracks where 2 soldiers were guarding; one with rifle. Passed with a greeting, then went over the M4 to lunch at The Grand Junction pub at Southall. The landlord opened the back gate for our bikes; and went to the shops to get fresh salad ingredients. Obviously, not use to getting 10 hungry cyclists turn up together! We were the only ones in the pub for a while and enjoyed our drinks before waiting for our lunch to be freshly made. The unusual thing about this pub is they do not sell beer! So, it was guinness and cider all round; and the food was cheap but very tasty. After lunch, the picnic people met us once more and we continued our ride back along The Grand Union Canal; passing Hanwell Flight Locks. As Beryl said, it was a beautiful ride back; passing many swans en route and canal boats. We continued through Brentford to Richmond Bridge, where we had afternoon tea in the newly, refurbished cafe under the bridge. Phil then left to make his way home; and the rest of us continued to Richmond Park and homewards.

Lynda.